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Jamey Carroll signs two-year deal with Twins

November 11, 2011 | 3:05
pm

And then he was gone.

Multiple media outlets have reported that Jamey Carroll, one of the few pleasant Dodgers’ surprises the last two seasons, has agreed to a two-year deal and identified that mystery team as the Minnesota Twins.

Carroll, who turns 38 in February, is slotted to be the Twins' starting shortstop, an opportunity he wasn’t expected to have even at second base had he re-signed with the Dodgers. Carroll did not come cheaply, however, the Twins reportedly signing him for a contract worth approximately $7 million.

Carroll exceeded expectations by all concerned during his two seasons with the Dodgers, capitalizing on injury opportunities to pretty much become a regular. The Dodgers signed him for two years at $3.85 million, so he worked his stint here into a nice late-career raise.

He played hard and consistently hustled. In the Dodgers’ dismal 2010 season, many considered him the Dodgers’ most valuable player and he was awarded their Roy Campanella Award, given to the player who best exemplifies the spirit and leadership of the former catcher.

Carroll wasn’t much of a hitter with runners on, but he hit .290 in his two seasons with the Dodgers, was a solid glove and he will certainly be missed. He was scrappy, well liked among teammates and truly versatile.

Which is not the same as saying the Dodgers should have matched Minnesota’s offer. His great value with the Dodgers remained as a utility player, and $7 million is some reasonably serious dinero for a utility player heading into the twilight of his career.

Still, though his original signing in L.A. was greeted with something less than enthusiasm, this is one player who provided value and whose career the Dodgers can never complain about.

Photo: Dodgers second baseman Jamey Carroll can't handle a throw from catcher Rod Barajas as San Diego's Orlando Hudson steals second base during a game last season at Dodger Stadium. Credit: Robert Gauthier / Los Angeles Times